Water receding soon, nearshore waters are unsafe

According to the National Weather Service in Key West winds are still gusting 50 to 70 mph across the Keys. There is no official confirmation that the surge has receded and that the flood threat is over.

Also, nearshore waters are unsafe. Many boats came loose and markers came down. It is not safe to operate a boat in nearshore waters or offshore waters. Captains should remain ashore until a marine agency has made an initial inspection.

Keys officials are set to mobilize both on-the-ground and flown-in resources as soon as the wind dies down. Officials strongly encourage residents to shelter in place and not venture outside. Help is on the way.

As of 3 p.m., the National Weather Service in Key West is reporting winds gusting 50 to 70 mph across the Keys.